NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — Authorities say a woman who died when her car went into the icy rapids above Niagara Falls likely drove into the river on purpose.

The New York State Park Police said Thursday, “entry into the water appears to be an intentional act” and an investigation was ongoing.

The driver was a woman in her late 60s who lived in the area. She died before rescuers could get to the vehicle Wednesday. Her body was recovered by a U.S. Coast Guard swimmer, who descended by cable from a hovering helicopter. The woman's cause of death is still being determined.

Officials say crews are now working to remove the car from the water.

"That's an operations decision," said Capt. Chris Rola of the New York State Parks Police. "They are going to weigh all the different options available to them. We have had all kinds of places reach out to us offering their assistance. We have referred them to operations. They are going to make that decision. I know there is some weather coming, so I am sure that will play into whether it is a land-based or air-based removal of the vehicle."

Police say the vehicle is not needed for evidence. At last check, the car was 45 feet from the edge of the falls.